Navigating the Illinois stormwater compliance landscape: What your business needs to know

For industries required to obtain an Illinois General Stormwater Permit, subtle changes went into effect this summer that will change a company's environmental responsibilities.

The Illinois Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) updated the National Pollution Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permit for stormwater discharges from industrial activities, effective July 1, 2023.

It's particularly important to be aware of the changes. The state has boosted its requirements for industrial facilities to prevent pollutants from entering local rivers and streams through stormwater.

Here's the need-to-know information:

• You'll need to submit a Notice of Intent (NOI) to renew your general stormwater permit. Companies have until Nov. 28 to submit their NOI to the Illinois EPA and renew their NPDES General Storm Water permit.
• A Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP) is required for the new permit. Businesses need to update their SWPPP by Dec. 28, 2023, to meet requirements.
• Visible signage must be available to the public. This sign will need to clearly state that the facility has a General Industrial Stormwater Permit The sign will need to provide the facility permit number, information about how and where to access the company's SWPPP, along with contact information for the company and Illinois EPA.
• Quarterly inspections and monitoring is mandatory. You need to complete documented site inspections and observations at least once each quarter. Observations involve collecting a water sample during a storm event and examining it for color, odor, clarity and more.
• Your monitoring requirements might change. Depending on the industry, there may have been changes to quarterly benchmark monitoring requirements. In addition, new indicator sampling may be required of your facility.
• You must submit an annual report to the Illinois EPA. Included in the annual report will be your documentation of quarterly inspections and observations, along with a copy of your SWPPP and details about any corrective actions that may have been implemented at your facility.

Many Fehr Graham clients, with our help, have already walked through the requirements that affect their business. However, our expertise allows us to help new clients in a number of ways. Fehr Graham can be your partner when it comes to submitting NOIs, training your employees in stormwater management, writing SWPPPs and documenting corrective actions. We have the knowledge base to ensure you're meeting state requirements and filing the proper paperwork on time. Let us take your Illinois EPA requirements off your plate so you can get back to doing what you do best – running a successful business.